At Augusta, Tiger Woods' absence still shapes the Masters

Tiger Woods is missing the Masters for a second straight year after his March 27 crash and a DUI-related charge, and patrons and players at Augusta say his absence remains emotionally present.

Tiger Woods is not competing at Augusta National this week, and his absence has been widely noticed. This is the second consecutive Masters he has missed following his March 27 crash and a DUI-related charge. It is also the first Masters since 1994 without either Woods or Phil Mickelson in the field. Patrons and players at Augusta have described a tone of concern, empathy and hope rather than cruelty. Key points: - Tiger Woods is absent from the Masters for a second straight year after his March 27 crash and a DUI-related charge, and he announced he would step away to seek treatment and focus on his well-being. - This is the first Masters since 1994 without either Woods or Phil Mickelson in the field. - Conversations with patrons on the grounds were described as largely sympathetic, with many offering words of hope rather than condemnation. - Players and figures around the game voiced a balance of accountability and support; Jason Day, Justin Rose, Patrick Reed and Rory McIlroy commented on both the seriousness of the incident and concern for Woods' recovery. - Golf legends Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player publicly acknowledged Woods' impact on the sport and extended supportive remarks. Summary: Woods' absence changes the texture of the tournament and has prompted public expressions of both accountability and compassion. Undetermined at this time.